Merton of the Movies + intro by Jo Botting

Showing how fast Hollywood forgot its roots, this broad parody of silent cinema was made barely 20 years after the coming of sound.

Red Skelton was coached in physical comedy by Buster Keaton for his performance as a small-town boy seeking fame and fortune in the movies. Grahame luxuriates in the glamour of her role, as a film star who seduces the innocent abroad.

Please note that this event also includes an introduction from season programmer Jo Botting, BFI National Archive Curator.